by Matthew Zahnzinger, Reviewed.com / USA TODAY

by Matthew Zahnzinger, Reviewed.com / USA TODAY

LAS VEGAS - At Pepcom's Digital Experience - one of the many one-off events at CES this year - iRobot unveiled its newest cleaning machine: the Scooba 450 floor scrubbing robot. Designed to replace the current Scooba 300.

Similar to the also announced Moneual H68, it can supposedly tackle any surface compatible with a mop and bucket: tile, wood, linoleum and more.

Unlike a typical vacuum - even of the robot variety - which makes one pass over the floor, the Scooba 450 goes over surfaces twice. The first time, it'll vacuum up stray debris while presoaking the floor to loosen stuck-on grime. The second time around, it'll scrub the floor, squeegeeing up excess moisture. Supposedly, this three-step cleaning process is meant to remove up to 99.3% of bacteria - an impressive claim.

A company rep explained that a single charge can last for either one 40-minute cycle - good for up to 350 cubic feet - or two 20-minute cycles for half the space. Depending on how obsessed you are with mopping your floor, that should be more than sufficient.

The whole thing sounds straightforward, but there are a few catches. Unlike a mop, which can cost under $10, the iRobot Scooba 450 is retailing for $599.99. The optional DryDock Charging and Drying Stand runs an additional $79.99. The stand not only gives your robot a designated home, it also activates an automatic drying cycle that will blow air throughout the Scooba's internal pipes to dry out excess moisture.

You can't buy just any old soap. IRobot worked with another company to develop a special cleaning fluid. The Scooba comes with a sample bottle that'll last for about eight uses (defined as a full 40-minute cycle, or one full tank).

While the iRobot Scooba 450 makes some pretty impressive claims, its high cost could place it out of reach for most consumers. If you've got the cash and have enough hardwood floor space, the Scooba could have a positive impact on your time. If nothing else, it could make for an interesting ice breaker at slow cocktail parties.